Arsenal prospect Daniel Oyegoke has signed for Brentford after confirming his exit from North London on social media.

Daniel Oyegoke with Arsenal (Photo via Oyegoke on Instagram)
Daniel Oyegoke with Arsenal (Photo via Oyegoke on Instagram)

Writing on Instagram earlier this week, Daniel Oyegoke explained that he had decided to leave Arsenal for a new challenge.

“What a journey it’s been at Arsenal,” Oyegoke said. “I have learnt so much during my time at this great club and it will always hold a special place in my heart.

“Thank you to the staff and players that have helped me along the way, I am so grateful for the opportunity and chance to stay, but it’s time for a new challenge. Thank you for everything!”

As he mentions, 18-year-old right-back Oyegoke was offered the chance to stay by Arsenal. The Premier League retained list confirmed that they’d presented him with a contract offer, but he evidently chose not to accept it.

Arsenal have now confirmed he has signed for Brentford.

The exact reasons behind Oyegoke’s departure are unclear at the moment. He wasn’t having any trouble getting games with Arsenal, and he was in the England u19s for a training camp recently, so he wasn’t being held back on that front either.

The teenager likely sees more of a pathway to senior football at Brentford, perhaps having seen Josh Dasilva make the same move and break into the first team.

Though it’s worth noting Dasilva did so when Brentford were a Championship club, and another former Arsenal full-back, Dominic Thompson, has not had such an easy time breaking through with Brentford – making nine starts in one-and-a-half seasons.

As for Arsenal, they’re fortunate enough to be blessed with a number of options at right-back. Whilst losing Oyegoke is a disappointment, it will give 17-year-old talent Brooke Norton-Cuffy a chance to step up in his place.